Optima CRICOS Provider 01938G
2015 | 2016
2015 | 2016
Contents
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Editor’s letter
On the cover
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20 years of Saint Stephen’s College, a timeline
Regulars
4 5 14-15 21 24-25 26-29 32-33 34
From the Chapel From the Headmaster Campus news Interact/Earlyact Staff news Where are they now? Rugby reports 10-year reunion
Special Features
11 12-13 16-17 18-20 22-23 30-31
Goda’s life lessons College fundraisers Old Scholars – Insights 20-year ball In loving memory Connections
Digital edition Optima is also available as an interactive PDF, featuring additional picture galleries.
Contact Us Reserve Road Coomera Qld 4209 PO Box 441 Oxenford Qld 4210 Tel 07 5573 8600 Fax 07 5573 8688 www.saintstephenscollege.net.au Saint Stephen’s College Limited ABN 31 071 134 024 CRICOS Provider Number 01938G Editorial production and design by Pacific Publishing Printed by First Print
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Snezana elcome to Optima 2015 Dudic – 16. I hope MEDIA AND you enjoy MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR reading this edition as much as I have enjoyed bringing together the content. In 2015 Saint Stephen’s College celebrated 20 brilliant years! Although, as the parent of a Class of 2013 Old Scholar and a current senior student, I did not experience the ‘birth’ of Saint Stephen’s, I feel honoured to have been part of the significant growth of the College over the past 15 years, and to have had the privilege of being involved in the many exceptional opportunities that are offered to students and staff. Our 20th year was celebrated in spectacular style at the Saint Stephen’s College 20th Anniversary Masquerade Ball on 31 May. It was a glittering event attended by 260 people — parents, friends, sponsors and Old Scholars, including our first College Captain (currently Head of Year 12) Mr Samuel Cleary. Masked guests filled the ballroom at the InterContinental Resort, Sanctuary Cove, for an unforgettable night of music, dance, fun and memories. The ‘happy snaps’ in the following pages are a testament to that. This edition of Optima includes some photos and highlights of the masquerade ball and a glimpse at the College’s first two decades, as well as an insight into why the staff, students, Old Scholars and events cement our good reputation and relationship with the community beyond the College grounds. As you peruse the pages you will no doubt agree we have much to celebrate at Saint Stephen’s College – outstanding achievements, countless contributions to and connections with the wider community and much more. But amid the joy, we have also been touched by much sadness in the recent past with the tragic loss of our much-loved and respected teacher, Human Resources Manager, College Executive and all-round amazing, ever-smiling ‘ironman’ Raymond Leslie Jackson – ‘Jacko’ to all. Also, inside a tribute to our wonderful bus driver of 10 years, Mike Owens, affectionately known as ‘singing Mike’ by the students, and, Class of 2010 Old Scholar and College ‘Spirit of Rugby’ recipient Peter Dalzell. In line with previous editions, Optima 2015 – 16 aims to share our successes and stories with the world. And, with thanks to staff, students and Old Scholars who have contributed to this edition, we are able to do just that. Also, I’d like to thank our advertisers who continue to support our annual colour publication that is distributed throughout the College, northern Gold Coast, broader community, nationally, internationally and available on line. Content in this edition includes our regular features such as, a word from the Chapel, our Headmaster, Where are they now? Staff news and the 10-year reunion. The many special features include a 20-year historic timeline of the College and lots more. Happy reading.
Snez
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FROM THE CHAPEL
Father Andrew Kinmont CHAPLAIN
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ignificant birthdays and anniversaries always make us feel nostalgic. It is amazing to think that it has been 20 years since the foundation of our College, so it is not surprising that we would look back over that time to see how far we have come. Hanging on the wall above the desk in my home office, I have the two whole school photographs that have been taken. The first was in 2001, which was the first year that we had students from Prep to Year 12, and the other was taken in 2005 on our College’s tenth ‘birthday’. I often find myself looking at these photographs and wondering where some of the staff are, and always wondering what amazing things our students are doing now. Although I have only been College Chaplain since July 2000, I have been involved with the College since the beginning. As I reminisce over the pages of the very first edition of Quotannis (year book), I recall all of those teachers, students, and parents who were prepared to invest in the vision that was Saint Stephen’s College. Perhaps even more amazing is to look at the names of those students who were part of the College in 1996, and to see that some of them are now teachers, tutors, and parents of our College today. One of the things about looking back is that it reminds us of who we are, but of course, it is also important for us to look forward to where we are going. Even though our Old Scholars comment on the buildings and facilities that we have now that were not here when they were students, it has never been the buildings and facilities that are the essence of our College. It has always been the feeling of family that exists among our students, parents, staff, and Old Scholars, the support that we show for each other during the tough times, and the Christian values that tie it all together. I am reminded of a story about a young man who is bringing up his son by himself after the death of his wife. He was constantly aware of the need to spend time with his son, so had decided that the two of them would go on a picnic. The day before the event, the father and son picked the destination, packed their lunch, and loaded up the car. Then, before getting an early start, it was time for a good night’s sleep. The boy couldn’t sleep. Excitement of what was to come kept him tossing and turning, until he crept into his dad’s room. 4
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Looking back for the future – thank you for tomorrow “Son, what are you doing up at this hour?” “I can’t get to sleep. Daddy, I can’t wait for tomorrow.” “Son, we’re going to have a great time, but you need to get some sleep first. Just go back to bed and try to turn off your mind.” The little boy did as his dad suggestion, but 10 minutes later, a freshly sleeping father felt himself being prodded and poked. “Dad, dad, I want to say something before I go to sleep.” “What is it that can’t wait until the morning?” “Dad, I just want to thank you for tomorrow.” I like this story, and I especially like the
way the little boy says, “Dad, I just want to thank you for tomorrow.” It would be easy for us to think only of the past, to worry about today, and dread tomorrow, but with the support of each other, and especially with the support of our Loving Heavenly Father, let’s all say “Heavenly Father, thank you for tomorrow.” Let’s look forward to another 20 years together as part of the Saint Stephen’s College family. With every blessing,
Father Andrew Kinmont
FROM THE HEADMASTER
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Our duty is to the legacy for College generations to come Mr Jamie Dorrington HEADMASTER
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am writing this article just after a special assembly to welcome visitors from Wakefield School in Virginia, USA. They, together with exchange and short-stay students from many countries, have taken the opportunity to sample the culture of our wonderful school. It is always nice to have visitors to show off to because it reminds us of our many gifts at Saint Stephen’s and in the surrounding area. The Wakefield visitors and three exchange students spent their first week in the very chilly Bunya Mountains at the Year 11 Leadership Retreat. It was great to see how our students embraced our guests. This welcoming environment continues to be one of the hallmarks of our College. The principal of Wakefield is one of many visiting educators to praise our approach to education. Visitors from Microsoft and other organisations with an education focus have described our facilities and coordinated approach to what is often called ‘21st C Education’ as amongst the best they have seen in any country in the last five years. They and other visitors and new parents to the College frequently note the positive atmosphere in classrooms and in the grounds and I know that many of our competitor schools also respect our approach to education. We need to take care not to become complacent about these matters. We have what we have because the people who came before us established
a platform. Our job has been to value what we inherited and then leave an even stronger legacy for those who follow. When our 2015 graduates leave the Final Chapel they will walk through the tunnel of students from Prep to Year 11. The first group of students they pass will be the graduates of 2028! I and other staff take every opportunity to remind our students of their responsibility to future generations of Saint Stephen’s College and, to their great credit, they take to the task seriously. I am very confident that our culture, which is already very strong, will continue to grow in both depth and breadth. Our
students are now much more involved in both the local and global community, with a waitlist of students keen to assist with the Rosies program that feeds homeless people on the Gold Coast and for the service earning program in Cambodia. Of course we continue to support charities to the tune of many tens of thousands of dollars annually. Our students are also keen to participate in challenging programs such as Outward Bound and The Kokoda Challenge. The Goda Foundation, under the guidance of Mr Humphrey Firkins, is always looking for opportunities for students to
further develop their character. Our music program is one of the best in the region and we continue to ‘punch above our weight’ in sport. Our integration of digital technology has been applauded internationally thanks to the fine work of Mr Peter West and other staff and we are well placed to deliver an effective and more personalised program. Our 20th Anniversary has been enthusiastically celebrated with a Masquerade Ball, a combined Old Scholars and current students’ concert and many other events that have allowed us to reflect on 20 years of wonderful achievement.
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COLLEGE HISTORY
TIMELINE OF SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE • First Sedes Honoris recipients are honoured on Saint Stephen’s Day • College moves from the original campus at Flowerbank to the current Reserve Road location Renee Carr, Jamie-Lea Knight, Brian Rowe, Humphrey Firkins
1996
1997
• 1 February 1996 blessing and dedication of Saint Stephen’s College • Saint Stephen’s begins as a Prep to Year 7 College with 166 students and 10 teaching staff • Inaugural school musical – ‘Oliver’. Photo: 1996 blessing and dedication
1995 • Lex Bell and Bishop Albert Haley discuss the creation of a school in the Coomera area • Brian Rowe is appointed foundation Headmaster in August 1995 • Adam Currey is enrolled as the first student. Photo: Brian Rowe with Adam Currey, the College’s first enrolment
2005 •10th anniversary of the College • Quadrangle garden is completed (right) • Building of the Prep to Year 2 classrooms is completed (left) • Introduction of the Drumline ensemble • International Education Department is created • XI Cricket team wins the APS Premiership Trophy
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COLLEGE HISTORY
nts en’s he nk d
1998
1999
2000
• First official involvement in Senior and Junior APS Carnivals • Construction of the Performing Arts Centre is completed • Stage I building opening is held on Saint Stephen’s Day • Chamber choir Cantica Ludi is formed (pictured)
• The Goda Foundation is established • Official opening of the senior block and Years 1 and 2 block on Saint Stephen’s Day • The Junior school wins the State Tournament of the Minds ‘Language/Literature’ division • New dance studio opens • Senior girls chess team wins Queensland Girls School Championship and Australian Championship (pictured left) • Inaugural Dash for Wings held on Saint Stephen’s Day (pictured below)
• Launch of the College rowing program • Official opening and blessing of the Balai Raya • Junior school wins the APS Athletics and Cross Country Percentage Trophy • Tournament of the Minds State Champions and National runner-up
2001 •Graduation of first Year 12’s Class (below) • State winners of the inaugural ANZAC Day Schools Activities Competition • Foundation 1st XV Rugby team (above) • Introduction of Duke of Edinburgh • Goda Firkins Auditorium opens• Pimpama Campus opens in February and closes at the end of Term 4
2004
2003
2002
• Foundation Headmaster Brian Rowe resigns • Headmaster Jamie Dorrington is appointed • Inaugural Sports Tour: Rugby, Netball, Volleyball • APS Premierships Winners in Rugby, Netball, Volleyball, Cricket, Softball and Touch Football
• Introduction of the Baruch House Crystal Competition • Formation of the College Stage Band
• Opening of the Connections block • The College grows to 1235 students
• USA Music Tour
• Introduction of Connections Program • Introduction of Interact Club
• Building of the Connections block
2006
2007
2008 OPTIMA | SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE
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COLLEGE HISTORY
2009 • Building of the staff and Student Centre and Multi-Purpose Hall (pictured) • Opening of the Consolidations building and sporting facilities on the oval
2010 • Opening of the staff and Student Centre, Humphrey Firkins Lecture Theatre and Multi-Purpose Hall (below and opposite) • First tour to Japan is held • Winner of the most successful debating school on the Gold Coast
2015 • College celebrates 20th anniversary • Construction of the Administration Building begins
2011 • Drumline ensemble wins the National Championships
2012
2014 • Open A Girls softball team win the APS Premiership – 6 years undefeated • Opening of the LOTE and iCentre (above and opposite)
• 1st XV Rugby APS Premiership • Construction of Science-inAction Building • Introduction of the Earlyact Club
• Opening of Science-in-Action, Learning Enhancement, Arts and Applied Technologies and Team Projects Centre • Musical Award for Best Production of a School/Youth Musical: Beauty and the Beast • Drumline win the National Championships • Open A Girls Soccer team wins the APS Premiership Trophy for the third consecutive year 8
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2013
COLLEGE HISTORY
How archives are recorded As well as a time for great celebration, the College 20th anniversary provided the perfect opportunity to gather and preserve the Saint Stephen’s history for current and future generations. Library Technician Kate Warner has taken on the massive task of archiving our first two decades in an official format. Here is her account of how we will share memories with our College and broader community.
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Drumline ensemble wins the National Championships for the second consecutive year
ith the College’s 20th year anniversary in 2015 we thought it the perfect time for a thorough organising of the College archives – and boy were we glad we started early! My work began by cautiously making my way into the ‘archive room’ where four large filing cabinets and one huge cupboard full of items were waiting for me. They were overflowing with hundreds of photos from the foundation years of the College, dozens of copies of the annual year book Quotannis and the magazine Optima, programs, invitations and even the original College Admissions Register. These exciting finds made me keen to continue, despite the enormity of the project. For almost the entire year of 2014 I worked on sorting thousands of individual photos, storing them in archival-sound folders and sleeves (to ensure they are protected) and finding descriptions for each photo. During the 2014 - 2015 school break, foundation staff member Annie White provided invaluable assistance in naming students in the photos and providing background stories and information to diverse events. By the start of 2015 I was determined to tackle the hundreds of GB’s (Gigabytes) of digital photos that the College has stored since 2002 – a mammoth organisational task! While I am still working on this, progress has been made and there are only eight more years to organise before I am up to date!
Kate Warner LIBRARY TECHNICIAN As anticipated with the anniversary I have been asked to find many photos and documents from the foundation years of the College and thanks to the organising of the archives I was able to help out. A selection of these photos was on display at the Masquerade Ball held to celebrate the anniversary and some can be seen throughout this year’s Optima. Looking ahead for the archives will see us digitising the photos from the foundation years of the College and hopefully making them available for interested members of the community in the near future. We will also be determining the full extent of the archives and cataloguing the collection. We have recently received some wonderful donations of uniforms for the archives and we would be interested in donations of more items that are missing from our collection – whether it be uniforms, video footage, memorabilia or photos! Please contact Kate Warner at the iCentre if you would like more information about the Saint Stephen’s College archives and its collection, or if you would like to enquire about what donations we are currently seeking. kwarner@ssc.qld.edu.au 07 5573 8600 OPTIMA | SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE
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FEATURE STORY
for all your marine needs
Each year, Chairman of The Goda Foundation, Mr Humphrey Firkins, attends the College ANZAC Day commemoration service and is regularly among the large crowd, in his mobile chair, at the Upper Coomera march alongside the many Saint Stephen’s students who pay their respect to those who have fought and fallen. 2015 marked the centenary of the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli. Here, Mr Firkins shares what ANZAC Day means to him.
Pray never, ever again
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ormally I join the march in my mobile chair at Upper Coomera. I am a British ex-serviceman. I spent the first few months in the Royal Engineers – originally doing some work at Bexley and Manchester University – but then I transferred to bomb disposal for six months after which I joined the Mountain Warfare Division in Scotland. I won’t bore you with all the details, only to say that ANZAC Day celebrations inevitably take my mind back to those days. More than anything else I think about that time – where we went, what we did and dear friends long gone. I suppose it is a sad time really. Seven years out of my life I still find hard to think about. War is not for celebrating or strutting about. I suppose in a quiet sort of way I’m glad I was able to help but I still miss good friends who never made it through. When it started we were only kids really but we grew up fast. It should never happen again – too many widows, too many mothers’ sons and daughters all gone – on both sides. What does ANZAC Day mean to me? It’s not Gallipoli; it’s not those long defenceless nights of bombed and burning London town. It’s not the beaches of Dunkirk or Normandy or the hot desert sands of Egypt and Libya – and yet in a strange sort of way it is a part of all of them – it’s the realisation of the awful horror of war and what it does to people – ordinary people – and what they suffer and the need to do everything we can possibly do to make sure it never happens again – ever So, that’s pretty much what I think about and pray about on ANZAC Day and Armistice Day too for that matter, the eleventh day of the eleventh month when we all vow – we shall remember them, never to forget.
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FEATURE STORY
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Goda: Life lessons how to be human
he Goda Foundation provides opportunities for Saint Stephen’s College students to balance the academic elements of learning with discovering what it really means to be human. It funds experiences that take students outside of their psychological, emotional and physical comfort zones, to help develop a deeper understanding of the world and their part in it. Mrs Goda Firkins, the namesake behind the foundation, was a lady of energy and vision who was committed to excellence in all of her own pursuit. Goda and Humphrey Firkins were the previous owners of the land on which Saint Stephen’s College stands today. The College began operation in the Firkins family residences in 1996 and The Goda Foundation officially launched in 1999 with Mr Firkins as the Chairman. The generosity of the foundation has over the years provided countless students the opportunities and challenges: leadership and character development, general programs, sponsorships and speech night awards. The Global Young Leaders Conferences offers students life-changing programs that allow them to explore the nature of leadership and the types of skills required to make a powerful impact. They learn communication skills, responsibility and how to lead by positive example as they discuss global issues with diplomats and visit bastions of political, social and economic influence. Students who attend one of The Global Young Leaders Conferences may be In the U ductory violin to all students S studen eligible to receive College credit ts visit: ● from Prep to Year 2 using the New York through George Mason University, visit: City and students a Suzuki instruction method, in m h e C recognised as one of the top 10 e t a United In te Nations speaker, g to deba which aims to nurture a love of, in ij e USA universities. B draft poli ● cy c issues proposals and develop character through, diplomati International Leadership , s d ir e a bate isreign aff sues and fo h it w music. e work to p Program (Cambodia) helps develop and see th ass resolutio diplomats Speech night awards include ns, culmin global citizens. Each year students in nmen a n ia atT c in g in istori th h n e e d G scholarships to the top five acaid lo b rb a Years 10 and 11 are invited to apply o l F S umnd mit simu Square a lation he at demic achievers in Year 12. re G for the three-week program, which e ld th d a t the Unit City an e d N a . The Goda Firkins Academic ti a o in ns runs in January of the following year. Headqua Wall of Ch rters. rb Medal for Excellence is awarded to so b a It includes learning through service, ● •Wa gzhou to shington ● Han t D selected OP1 students in Year 12. n C e ci as volunteers at New Hope School, n a embassie China’s s, evaluate The Humphrey Firkins Award and e culture immersion and some sightseerc n e a m ti ons’ interd com e p e n for Science is awarded to a student . dence in ing. culture world tra de and stud who demonstrates excellence in Outward Bound provides rite of ghai to y the art n a h S ● of rn conflict re e d science. o m passage experiences for young people, ss e solution. witn The Kelmscot Chaucer Award is where students discover untapped China. presented to select students for their resources from within and empowercontribution to and excellence in the ment to assume responsibility as they study of literature. develop life skills such as peer leadership, the wilderness. decision-making, problem-solving and General programs and sponsorships communication, while spending a week in Annual arts exhibition displays artworks by students and staff. Fun and science program (Griffith University) invites students from throughout South East Queensland to participate. Medical research provides substantial ongoing financial support to the Freidriechs Ataxia research program and a research program that tackles Alzheimer’s disease. Suzuki program sponsors the College’s Foundation Strings Program to teach introOPTIMA | SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE
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COLLEGE FUNDRAISERS
Staff, students raise hopes
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ach year Saint Stephen’s College students and staff commit much time and effort into raising funds and awareness for a variety of local, national and international not-for-profit organisations. In the just the last 12 months many thousands of dollars have been raised through fundraising events on the College campus. Students and staff have shaved for a cure, slept out in the cold and gone without food for good causes. World’s Greatest Shave is a popular annual fundraiser, coordinated by Father Andrew Kinmont and the Haley House. It always attracts a gonga line of volunteers, ready to brave the clippers and hair dye. Held in the Goda Firkin’s Auditorium, it always plays to a packed house of cheering supporters, in appreciation of the courage it takes to shave your locks. In 2015, to the rhythm of the Funk Band, the sizzle of barbecuing snags and food stalls 10 students braved the World’s Greatest Shave to raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation – including two year 10 female students. They were: Joseph Golden (Year 12), Hugh Collins (Year 12), Mitchell Hobbs (Year 11), Hardus Redelinghuys (Year 10), Holly Stania (Year 10), Alex Armbrust (Year 10), Ethan Brooks (Year 8), Jaden Lloyd (Year 8), Gareth Rees (Year 7), Owen Bubeck (Year 7). Four teachers braved the cut and many staff ‘coloured’ to help raise more than $6000. Blues Festival and Blue Jeans day for Beyond Blue. Coordinated by Senior teacher Stuart Mattress and Hughes House, the lunchtime Blues Festival was an al fresco
WORLD’S GREATEST SHAVE
BEYOND BLUE
$ 6 0 0 0
$ 1 0 7 3 HOMELESS SLEEP-OUT
Please continue to support our students and College in doing our bit to make life a little happier for others.
$ 1 1 0 0 EDUCATION PROJECT VANUATU
$ 1 1 4 0 0
affair. Held in the quadrangle under the Jacarandas, the smell of sausages and the brass beat of the Stage Band filled the air. Drinks, sausages and Beyond Blue wristbands were the flavour of the day. This was followed by a Blue Jeans Day, where students were allowed to wear blue jeans with a sports uniform top for a gold coin donation, raising $1073. Homeless Sleepout encouraged more than 100 junior and senior students to snuggle up in onesies and sleeping bags to spend the night under the stars in freezing conditions. A sausage sizlzle, noodles, lollies and gold coin donation on entry helped
raise $1100 for Rosies and Youth Homeless. They were joined by some brave parents, staff and Headmaster Jamie Dorrington. 40-Hour Famine is always well supported. Students and staff at Saint Stephen’s gave up food, furniture, technology in the quest to raise awareness and funds to help fight global hunger. This year, the 40th year of the 40-Hour Famine supported World Vision projects in Bangladesh, Cambodia, East Timor, Laos, Malawi, Nepal, Swaziland and Uganda. The funds went towards solutions such as nutrition training for parents, child health services and better agricultural practices.
Water bottles to help Indo kids and the environment
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aint Stephen’s has been working with Australian and Indonesian schools to combat the environmental, health and economic problems of bottled water in Indonesia through the Bottle for Botol project, coordinated by Old Scholar and foundation student Mitch Longhurst. Bottle for Botol encouraged Australian students to sell drinking bottles to fund a waste education program and free stainless steel drink bottles for the children in their Indonesian partner schools. Students in Indonesia buy their drinking water in aqua cups, often the only safe option. However, this has a financial and a significant environmental cost. Australian and Indonesian schools held a bottle design competition, wrote ‘friendship tags’ and chatted over Skype about environmental problems. 12
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Program Coordinator Mitch Longhurst worked with 15 schools in Indonesia. “I have been consistently humbled by the enthusiasm and commitment of the students and teachers I have been working with. All of the teachers helping us deliver the sustainability education program are volunteers and have put in an enormous amount of extra work to teach the program, which focuses on the impact of plastics on the marine environment, the difference between organic and non-organic waste, and the importance of the 3 R’s – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle,” said Mitch. “Similarly, I have been equally blown away by the level of commitment, engagement and willingness to learn shown by the students, and to see how much they value and look after their bottles and ‘symbols of friendship’ (friendship tags). It has also been
fantastic to see the students using their bottles first hand, knowing that together we are doing something practical to help reduce the amount of single-use plastic consumed in each day.” Saint Stephen’s teacher and College coordinator for the project Paul Hemphill said it had encouraged great commitment. “In addition to being educational, it has encouraged students from Prep to Year 12 to work together. On an individual level, it has provided a great opportunity for leadership with juniors speaking at senior assemblies, seniors helping juniors with bottle sales. The Saint Stephen’s Earlyact Club has been involved and the energy in the College around this project was fantastic,” said Mr Hemphill. For more visit www.bottleforbotol.org, email phemphill@ssc.qld.edu.au or mitch@ bottleforbotol.org.
COLLEGE FUNDRAISERS
and thousands for charities Rosalyn Comport TEACHING AND LEARNING AND SPELL-A-THON INITIATOR
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aint Stephen’s College students, in Prep to Year 12 recently participated in a spell-a-thon to raise proceeds to assist the rebuilding of local schools in one of the Vanuatu Islands devastated by Cyclone Pam. When natural disasters occur, it is to the children we are drawn. Assisting them to bring back the ‘normality’ of their local community school is an offer that we are proud to give. After catastrophic cyclone PAM hit Vanuatu, it left 8000 students without homes or schools. Instead of just donating money, I thought we could show our educational support by doing something academic and earn the money! I am so proud that our students. They immediately came on board to spell for Vanuatu and raised $11,400. All funds went to the J738N Education Program in Vanuatu supporting the rebuild of schools in the Tanna Island area, which was most dramatically affected by the cyclone. Each student was given a list of up to 80 grade appropriate and challenging words to learn and then took part in A ‘spell off’. What a great way to learn and raise funds and awareness for in great need. Father Andrew Kinmont was also of great help in organising the direction of the monies. Academic Captains and Year 12 Prefects helped with the marking and our Year 11 Ambassadors also helped in a great way in the Junior College marking. What a fabulous combined College effort for such a worthy cause. J738N Education Program in Vanuatu is a great project. The direct beneficiaries are: ●● 300 students in North Tanna (NorthGate school), Middle Bush (Alofa school), Lenakel and Green Point (Kumahau school) areas in Tanna Island ●● 24 members of staff in the same areas
●● 4 communities in the same areas ●● North Gate school: surrounding communities totalling 500 men, women and children ●● Alofa school: surrounding communities totalling 400 men, women and children ●● Lenakel school: surrounding communities totalling 3000 men, women and children ●● Kumahau school: communities totalling 500 men, women and children
The major development objective
●● To build the individual capacities of every child in the four schools. (The schools provide education primarily for those who would otherwise not be able to attend school). ●● To build the individual capacities of every staff member in the four schools. (Staff are mostly High School educated members of the school community without formal teacher
training. They work in their own village or area as monitors and supervisors and some are learning to teach a class as well). ●● To provide opportunities for community education for the school and the school community. (Training programs targeting topics such as basic health and hygiene, nutrition, the advantages and importance of education for their children, and literacy advancement are needed).
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CAMPUS NEWS
Grandparents share special day with Junior School
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randparents and Special Friends Day has been held at the College since 1997 and has become a favourite event for the Junior School. Each year we proudly put out the welcome mat to hundreds of people who travel from far and wide to enjoy this special occasions that gives our Junior College students the opportunity to share their dreams and showcase their talent. The exciting day of memories includes a concert, visits to classrooms, lunch and lifelong connections. Headmaster Jamie Dorrington says the annual day is one of the biggest crowd drawers on the College calendar. “All of us always look forward to welcoming grandparents and special friends, some of whom travel from interstate and overseas to be with us. Most of these visitors only make it to Saint Stephen’s once a year and they are always amazed by the latest facilities. I thank them on behalf of the entire College for their interest in our development and their support of our students,” he said. Here are some memories from over the years.
Kokoda new track record T
he Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge is undoubtedly one of the toughest team endurance events – a gruelling cross country hike across 96 kilometres that must be completed in 39 hours, in honour of the 39th Militia, the first Australian troops to set foot on the Kokoda Track. Each team must raise $1600 for the Kokoda Youth Foundation, founded in 2004 by Vietnam veteran Doug Henderson OAM. With the help of their support crew, teams trek the 96 kilometres along fire trails, crossing 12 creeks and climbing summits of 5000 metres of vertical elevation. The goal is to finish as a team in honour of the spirit forged on the Kokoda Track in 1942: courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice. It has become a tradition at Saint Stephen’s as each year, students, staff and support crews take to the tough terrain. The 2015 challenge was no different with amazing strength and determination shown by everyone involved. Headmaster Jamie Dorrington said: “I was so proud to see four teams set off on the 2015 Kokoda Challenge. They were part of the contingent of 250 school teams and even more adults who set off on this gruelling event. “All of our teams finished with the 14
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THE 2015 TEAMS WERE: Brother Bears led by Mr Dave Bear Tom Kerrigan; Vaughan Campbell; Cooper Cook; Marcus Pratt Bush Bashers led by Mr Simon Howe Alana Biviano; Wade Cubbin; Brett Lowe; Anna Shatilova Move-fusa led by Mrs Dani Goucher Jessie Douglas; Bianca Goucher; Lauren Sampson; Rhiannon Sutton-Yeomans Beauty and the Geeks led by Mr Stephen Henderson Kelly Coleman; Molly Haswell; Jayde Lowe; Chiara Pyne quickest in 22 hours and 23 minutes – Dave Bear and his team of Brother Bears – breaking the school record. “I acknowledge the fine work of our staff – Dani Goucher, Simon Howe, Steve Henderson and Dave Bear – who cared for their teams as well as the parents who supported them. “I think it is wonderful that we have more and more students and staff willing to take on this physical and psychological challenge. Well done everyone!”
CAMPUS TECHNOLOGY
An international award for blended learning initiatives S
aint Stephen’s College has been acknowledged internationally as a front runner in blended learning with the presentation of the D2L Brightspace Excellence Award at the 2015 Ignite Asia Pacific (APAC) conference on the Gold Coast. The College was one of three institutions in the region (also Victoria University and Singapore Management University) recognised for innovative education experiences using the Brightspace platform created by the EdTech company D2L. Saint Stephen’s was highlighted as the: “front runner in taking a structured, wellplanned, organisation-wide drive towards blended learning. The school embodies the true value of flexibility and has made huge strides in creating engaging experiences for its students. It currently offers more than 160 courses via its Brightspace-based learning platform, all of which were carefully developed to be simple to use...” Director Asia Pacific D2L,
Headmaster Jamie Dorrington, eLearning Support Grace Dorrington, Director of eLearning Peter West, Assistant to Executive Curriculum Caroline Lee and Director of Studies Sherrie Cuthbert proudly accept the international award. Marlon Herft, said award winners had delivered platforms that drove self-paced, catered learning which advanced teachers and students beyond the limits set by the traditional education method. “In doing so, they have created environments relevant to the digital age where
teaching and learning surpasses classrooms and lecture theatres, and fosters better outcomes by enabling more resources, insights and predictability than ever before,” said Mr Marlon. Headmaster, Jamie Dorrington, said the College was renowned for delivering rich
learning experiences through visionary technology and worldclass facilities. D2L, formerly Desire2Learn, is an educational technology company known for its cloudbased platform Brightspace. D2L has operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, Brazil, and Singapore.
College leads the way with technology and learning Peter West DIRECTOR OF eLEARNING
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ur College continues to be recognised locally, nationally and internationally as a leader in enhancing learning and teaching through the use of technology. Our students have excellent programs to support learning and teaching, and are being well prepared for life in the modern world. We work with leading external companies to ensure we deliver the best in blended learning. Examples of the recognition for our internal motivation that provides exceptional opportunities for students include:
D2L
●● Asia Pacific Excellence Award – Saint Stephen’s was one of three winners.
●● Video case study – first company case study of a Prep to Year12 school in the Asia Pacific region. ●● Conference representation – Director of eLearning presents at D2L APAC conference.
Microsoft
●● Excellence - lead education staffer highlights our eLearning model as the best nationally and a match internationally. ●● Video case study – chosen as one of two schools in Australia. ●● Promotional photo shoot – senior students using a range of laptops. ●● 1:1 laptop case study – one of eight schools selected nationally to demonstrate best practice. ●● Tours – higher education visits from South Korea and Indonesian Asia Pacific FlipCon Conferece Hosted by the College, the ‘flipped learning’ conference included a three-day visit to campus by
key educators and speakers. Several staff presented at the conference.
ActionTec Asia Pacific and USA Following a high profile visit the company provided hardware, software and technical expertise to assist the implementation of initiatives. YourTutor The Australian company provides out-of-hours support for students - a one click link within our online learning environment – that the College provided assistance to implement. Data analysis project As one of three schools,
the College was chosen to work with a data specialist company to develop a system aimed at providing greater insight into individual student performance.
Technical training The Australian division of Aerohive, the wireless infrastructure connecting students and staff reliably – hosted a training day for technical staff from other Gold Coast schools. OPTIMA | SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE
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OLD SCHOLARS — INSIGHTS Caity Lacy is a Saint Stephen’s College foundation student with a love for music, in particular the violin, which has seen her play around the world and on the grand stage with greats such as Bruce Springsteen, Michael Buble and Rod Stewart. Twenty years on Caity is back at College as a violin tutor. Here is her story of early life at Saint Stephen’s and the road to now. Caity Lacy CLASS OF 2007
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spent my entire school life at Saint Stephen’s College starting there in Year 1 – the foundation year. Mr Mark Oliver was my teacher and our classroom was in a converted bedroom of a second house which was part of the original Firkin’s property, Flowerbank. This is where I met some of my life-long friends Anita Knight, Sarah Champness and Brogan Elliot. The next 12 years were spent growing up with the College until my graduation in 2007. Learning the violin and playing netball were my extra-curricular activities. In Year 6, I was awarded a new violin by The Goda Foundation as part of a ‘special project’ which had been established to assist students to develop their interests and passions. This was the first of numerous ways The Goda Foundation has assisted students over the years and I am so privileged to have been able to receive this assistance but also later be given the opportunity to give back by teaching students with that same violin. At the end of my time at Saint Stephen’s, I, like many others, had no clear path I wanted to head down. I was offered a wonderful opportunity to tutor violin at Saint Stephen’s and also facilitate The Goda Foundation’s initiative to teach violin to young students in Years 1 and 2 to instill and encourage a love of music when they are young. I have continued at the College in this role since 2008 whilst completing my university degree, graduating in 2011. This year (2015) I am completing my Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching. Since 2008 my violin has taken me around the world playing in an electric string group in India, USA, Taiwan, Papua New Guinea and on cruise ships throughout Asia and the South Pacific. It has also taken me on stage with greats such as Bruce Springsteen, Michael Buble and 16
Caity on world stage yet is happiest here
recently Rod Stewart as well as to television orchestras on Dancing with the Stars and X Factor. Saint Stephen’s College has, and will, always be an integral part of who and what I am. It has provided me with opportunities but more importantly given me a great foundation upon which to build my life. The friendships I have made and the support I
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have been given have allowed me to develop into the person I would like to be. As much as I enjoy travelling the world and playing violin for and with the rich and famous, I equally enjoy walking through the College and into my little studio in the music department and hearing the daily stories and newly-learned pieces
from my students. So, from starting at Saint Stephen’s as a five-year-old to teaching here as a 25-year-old, I can truly say I have come a full circle. Who knows where the path will ever lead you, but in my case I feel very fortunate to have been part of the Saint Stephen’s College experience for the last 20 years.
OLD SCHOLARS — INSIGHTS Sam Cleary CLASS OF 2001
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t seems only natural after 20 years to pause for a moment and cast an eye over one’s shoulder and back down the path that has been travelled. And for me, that path has well and truly been paved with navy, rust, and cream. Reflecting on those 20 years has enabled me to appreciate just how much has changed, and perhaps unexpectedly, how much has remained the same. This was most poetically demonstrated in my role of Head of Year 12, where I frequently met with the current College Captains for 2015. In these meetings, I could not help but cast my mind back to my own experiences as College Captain in 2000 and 2001. Whilst the Saint Stephen’s College campus has been almost entirely transformed in comparison to the early days, the role of the College Captain has been somewhat of an evolution. This is best demonstrated by the expansion of the student leadership team to six – known affectionately around campus as the ‘Big 6’. Today College Captains oversee the College Prefects, emcee assemblies and represent the College at events. The four Vice Captains are in charge of the ever-expanding Year 11 Ambassador Program, contribute to assemblies, pilot new student-driven programs, and fill in for the College Captains in their absence at events. The badges that modern College Captains and Vice Captains pin to their blazers represent a clearly defined role built over two decades, but also the freedom to refine new, and develop older, programs. Back at the turn of the millennia, though, things were decidedly different. Given I was part of the foundation year at the College, my cohort was always the oldest. This meant that in 2000 as a Year 11 student, I had the privilege of being selected as College Captain, as well as the unique opportunity to reprise my role in 2001 with my fellow captain, Kirsty McBryde (now Kirsty Emery). This not only served to allow us to perfect our roles, but
Sam Cleary was a foundation student and the first Saint Stephen’s College Captain in 2000 and 2001. He was also involved in the Performing Arts with main roles in two musicals - Bugsy in 1997 and Oklahoma 2000. Twenty years on Sam is the Head of Year 12 – mentoring those students who will continue to build on the groundwork legacy he and fellow Captain Kirsty McBryde (now Kirsty Emery) helped to lay in 2001. Here is Sam’s recollection of, and reflection on, his first and ongoing connection with the College.
First College Captain now Head of Year 12 also to cause delightful confusion with current students who ponder just how I managed to be College Captain two years running – my personal favourite is that I was kept back a year. The badges we pinned to our blazers were not nearly as steeped in tradition, and our roles not nearly as defined. Given this, Kirsty and I worked very closely with Head of Senior College Maree Lloyd, and Headmaster Brian Rowe, in representing the students and wider community of the College as best we could. Like today, we organised and facilitated assemblies, organised prefects, and introduced new programs.
Whilst we did not have 20 years of history resting on our shoulders, or the associated reassurance that provides, we did have the dizzying feeling of stepping out with a truly clean slate as rust-clad pioneers. The refinement of the roles and expansion of the leadership team aside, the core of student leaders at Saint Stephen’s College has stayed true to those early days. The close relationships Dean of Senior College Kathryn Dendy, Headmaster Jamie Dorrington and I, have with the current leadership team is reminiscent of the old days (although I do like to think my haircut has improved since
then) and the integral role that they play in the daily running, and larger strategic direction, of the College has remained, and indeed, flourished, since we left Flowerbank. I like to think that as the 20year anniversary of the College rolls around, the student leaders, and the wider community, will build on the legacy that Kirsty and I helped to lay back in 2001. It is my hope that as the list of etches names in the Centenary Quad lengthens that our student leaders continue to lead the College in a manner that will bring pride to our Old Scholars, and hope to our current students and wider community.
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Celebrating 20 Years
SAINT STEPHEN’S
Masquerade Ball P
arents, friends, Old Scholars, supporters and sponsors helped celebrate 20 exceptional years in spectacular style at the Saint Stephen’s College 20th Anniversary Masquerade Ball at the InterContinental Hotel, Sanctuary Cove. And, what a wonderful evening we enjoyed! Everyone would agree it was a dazzling night of dance, music, merriment and memories to last a lifetime.
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The sold out event was due to the many supporters, sponsors and members of the College community, who worked so long and hard leading up to and during the event - from wrapping and displaying silent auction items to donating major prizes. We thank you all for making our historic occasion the overwhelming success it was.
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Main Sponsors Gold
Mr Humphrey Firkins and The Goda Foundation
Silver Burling Brown Architects, Zarraffas Coffee, AV Inspirations
Bronze Programmed Property Services, UMS - Uniform Management Services
Contributors
Athletes Foot Helensvale Saint Stephen’s College P&F Saint Stephen’s College FOTA Art Creations Oxenford Sites On A Trike Total Fit Tiffani Wood Vocal Coaching
Royal Pines, Benowa Oksana’s Kitchen Sanctuary Cove Country Club Bedarra Island House Aqua Blinds Ready Steady Go Kids Jaye Niemi Nutrimetics NAB Hope Island Links Scott McLaughlin Tori Brae Clothing Lisa Hunt Baskin Robbins L’Oreal Gold Coast Suns Vive La Vida Hair Rocks, Pimpama Red Barn Studio Village Road Show Theme Parks Gold Coast Holiday Park The InterContinental, Sanctuary Cove
Thanks
Jane Howe, Tony Marshall, Dolores Santosa, Simon Howe and the Maintenance Department, Kirti Kumar, Rowena Parfitt, Sam Reynolds, Yvonne Bampa, Kate Warner, Snezana Dudic, Alex Litchfield and Danielle Welsh, whose help made the ball possible.
Music
Harpist Story Morehouse (Year 12 student) and the band Oz Hornz
Decorations
Tricia Tirado from A Little Vintage Bliss
Photos
Anne Ballin from Tango Photography
EARLYACT INTERACT
Community spirit grows with our young volunteers I
Jane Howe Chairperson Interact and Earlyact Clubs
t has been an absolute pleasure to be the Chairperson of the Interact and Earlyact Clubs at Saint Stephen’s for the last three years. I especially enjoy the enthusiasm the students bring to the meetings every fortnight. The Interact Club, which began at the College in 2006, was initially for students in Years 8 to 12 but in 2014 I opened it up to students in Year 7, and now with more than 50 members, some of the meetings can get eventful, but it is always for a good cause. The Earlyact Club was chartered in 2013 when I was approached by junior students asking why there was not a community club for them. And my journey began in search of a community service club they could be a part of. It was a long process which included writing a constitution as there were no other Earlyact clubs in out District 9640. Earlyact began with only 11 members and has grown to about 30 from Years 4 to 6. The Interact Club was initially sponsored by the Rotary Club of Coomera Valley but has recently changed to the Rotary Club of Coomera River which also sponsors our Earlyact Club. The aim of both clubs is to provide community service and raise funds for local and global charities. Events they have been part of over the years include: ●●Providing breakfast for students in Coomera State School ●●Fundraising fashion Parade – Stepping Out ●●Gold Coast Suns Homeless Sleepout ●●Upper Coomera Anzac Parade ●●Wrapping and delivering Christmas hampers to local community ●●Pyjama Day ●●Daffodil Day
• • • • •
Personalised pens Luggage Tags Umbrellas Jewellery Apparel
●●Relay for Life ●●Upper Coomera Centre Open Day ●●Magnolia Aged Care Living Open Day ●●Gold Coast Marine Expo ●●Mother’s Day stall ●●Model United Nations Assembly ●●College P&F Junior Disco ●●Father’s Day stall Charities they have helped include: Queensland Cancer Council, Sophie’s Fight, Muscular Dystrophy, The Pyjama Foundation, The Asthma Foundation, Radio Lollipop, shelter boxes in the Philippines, Farmers Drought Appeal and the Givney Family. The mission and operation of both clubs are closely linked to the ideals of Rotary and provide foundation and natural succession into Rotaract and Rotary. Interact and Earlyact provide an opportunity for students to gain awareness and knowledge of their community and world. Members are encour-
aged to volunteer and carry out projects which benefit their school, local and global communities. Students develop citizenship and leadership qualities by identifying and taking responsibilities for real life problems. They realise the importance of respect, dignity and caring for all people by promoting good will and understanding and at the same time are able to build friendships with other members and mentors. As Youth Services Director of the Rotary Club of Coomera River it is a privilege and honour to recognise our upcoming Rotarians, the Earlyact and Interact members, and their achievements. As Chair of these clubs at the College I thank each and every member for your contribution and attendance because without you there is no club. Your enthusiasm and commitment is truly amazing!
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Tributes In loving memory of Mike Owens College bus driver/staff 30 June 1954 -26 July 2015
M
ike Owens had worked at the College since 2005 and was the first Saint Stephen’s person to greet our students who caught the Coomera Waters bus, the Hope Island bus and previously the Mt Tamborine service bus. Mike will be missed for his great sense of humour, his wonderful stories and kindness to all the students he came into contact with. Mike’s funeral was held on 3 August at the College Chapel. He was farewelled by hundreds of family, staff, friends, colleagues and students. The service was followed by a guard of honour by Year 12 students and the Saint Stephen’s College All Hail. Here are some of the many messages we received following Mike’s sudden passing. Mike will be sorely missed by everyone in admin. We all love him and he knew that too. We made sure he knew. Always time for a joke or two. You could always rely on Mike. Go on now and rest in peace. Alecia and Robyn and the rest of the family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in reading all these wonderful messages. You can be so proud of your dad and hubby. Vale Mike. I am gutted. I am so happy I got to work so close to you the last few years as Office Manager. Will miss your wicked sense of humour terribly! Mike was my good friend and I will miss him very much. We spent many lunch times sitting and chatting together - he always made me laugh with his stories and had
a wicked sense of humour. I will miss him flashing the bus lights and tooting the horn, his big smile and waving his hands when I arrive at the College in the mornings just as he is driving out to pick up the kids from Coomera Waters. The staffroom felt empty today without Mike sitting in his favourite chair. Although I have not met you Robyn I feel I know you as Mike very often spoke of his family and how proud he was of all of you, especially you Alecia, and all that you have achieved, his baby girl. Your dad was a lovely man and I feel very privileged to have known him. RIP Mike ... missing you! Xxx It is a sad day today with the news of our friend and colleague Mike Owens’ death yesterday. Mike loved being around the staff and hence was always in the staff room way before his shift started in the afternoons. Many of us were fortunate and had the pleasure of sitting with him during lunch, and sharing in his stories, about his family, his job in Canberra as a Federal police officer in his younger days, his likes and dislikes …
In loving memory of Peter David Dalzell Class of 2010 24 February 1993 – September 2014 By David Bear lthough I never had the pleasure of teaching Peter in any classes over his time at Saint Stephen’s College, I had the privilege of coaching him in Rugby Union for a number of seasons. When I think of Peter Dalzell, I think of a positive ‘can do’ attitude, a tremendous work ethic and a great smile…with terrific teeth. Peter was a tenacious rugby player. He played in and won two rugby premierships and narrowly lost a third while playing in the Saint Stephen’s College 1st IV. Peter was committed to training and to his team. Nothing was ever too much for Peter. He was
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always willing to help out the coaching staff, we all appreciated this about Peter. Peter was the type of player that players loved to play with and coaches loved to coach. Peter’s 1st IV coach, Mr Mick Skehan, referred to Peter as a 110 kilogram player in a 70 kilogram body. In his final year of school, Peter was awarded the coveted ‘Spirit of Rugby’ trophy, which is presented to the player who embodies all that is good in a rugby player. Peter was a very worthy recipient. This was no mean feat either, as
some very cheekily told… but that was Mike … he never failed to make me laugh… he will be sorely missed! RIP Mike . I shall miss our almost daily banter about the number of books you collected for me from the Post Office, and our discussions about “them damn ugly chairs” in the library. I’m sure deep down, you really liked them. Alecia, your wonderful dad will be missed by many - you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Dear Robyn I can’t tell you how sad I feel at the loss of Mike, and of your dear Dad Alecia, he thought the world of you both and was always talking about you. I will miss him so much, I have had many a chat with him over the years and lots of laughs. Especially this last week at lunch. I will miss him calling me Miss Wales, and me calling out Hi Mikey. The spot where he would sit is bare. Rest in Peace Mike, the place won’t be the same without you. My thoughts and prayers are with you Robyn and Alecia.
he was playing among some fine footballers too, some played for their state and others have gone on and are playing in premier grade across South East Queensland. The trophy paid tribute to Peter’s attitude, ability and the dignity in which a Saint Stephen/s College rugby player should demonstrate. I have coached rugby at Saint Stephen’s College for more than 15 seasons and I wish that I could say that I can remember each and every young man that I have coached over this time as clearly as I remember Peter. But sadly this is not the case. Peter was special, he made a real, positive impact on those around him. It was a pleasure knowing him and an honour to share my memories of Peter. A service in memory of Peter was held at the Saint Stephen’s College Chapel on 22 September 2014. Peter was the younger brother of Erynh, who graduated in 2006.
Tributes In loving memory of Raymond Leslie Jackson ‘Jacko’ Human Resources Manager, Physics and Maths Teacher, Sports Coach 12 July 1955 – June 23 2015 By Jamie Dorrington first spent time with Ray some 14 years ago when we were both students at Bond University. I, like everyone, was immediately drawn to his warmth, optimism, sense of fun and an ability to keep things in perspective. He was the kind of person I wanted to be around. I immediately thought of Ray when I took up my position as the Head of Saint Stephen’s 12 years ago. I knew his intellect, honesty and character would be a great asset to our school. It took some time to convince him to leave Somerset College where he had served with distinction for over two decades. I pestered Ray until he eventually relented and agreed to join Saint Stephen’s as our first Human Resources Manager, as well as a teacher of Maths and Physics, sporting coach and facilitator of camps and other adventures at the school. I was honoured to have Ray as a colleague, confidant and friend for a little less than eight years. I am sure we have all had great difficulty coming to terms with his loss. Every time I close my eyes, I see his smiling face and hear him say: “Is there anything I can do to help?” I am sure I am not alone in having this experience. Ray was not a process person, he was a people person. Ray was an optimist, an empathiser, a committed and self-effacing community builder. In many respects he was at the centre of our school because he had contact with every member of staff and all of them knew he had their interests at heart. Who knows how many of our current members of staff decided to join Saint Stephen’s because Ray was at their interview? Of course Ray remained, at his core, a very dedicated teacher. He loved the students and was always very proud of them. I know he felt the same about the students of Somerset and Ivanhoe Grammar School before that. Like all great teachers he got a kick out of seeing students experience ‘light bulb’ moments, but mainly he loved them as people, even if they didn’t get an A for Physics. He loved to watch them grow into fine young men and women.
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I remember standing in the back of the Goda Firkins Auditorium with him as we watched the students parade their wearable art, and every few minutes Ray would tell me, face beaming, how great the kids were. Only a few days before the accident he and Karen joined Humphrey, Grace and I for dinner before we all attended the Strings Concert at Mt Tamborine. Again his face lit up as the students played. Our students and students from his other schools joined us to pay their respects to a man who inspired them, who believed in them and who was always there for them. I am so proud of them. What was it about Ray that brought so many of us together, not just here, but through the tribute Facebook page that was
accessed by 30,000 people? How can one person have had such an impact? I am a fan of Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People and it occurs to me that Ray had mastered so many of these habits. He sharpened the saw through his commitment to fitness and self-renewal. He loved to work in harmony with others. He genuinely sought opportunities for everyone to benefit and would champion the cause of anyone at risk of being left behind. He sought to truly understand others before seeking to be understood. He put first things (people) first. And he was one of those rare people who mastered the foundational habit of ‘being proactive’. In all the years I knew Ray I NEVER saw him react negatively to a situation. Ray had a strong set of values that he referred to before he spoke or acted. As much as Ray was a very fine and dedicated Maths and Physics teacher, he was a masterful teacher about life. He brought honour to our profession. No single individual can ever replace Ray. He was one of a kind and we should all count ourselves incredibly fortunate to have known him. How then can we fill some of the void left by his passing? We must start to look, as Ray did, for the goodness in others. And most importantly, we should all look for and be guided by the goodness in ourselves. That, above all else, is Ray’s lesson for us all. OPTIMA | SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE
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STAFF NEWS MELISSA TRONC
STEPHEN HENDERSON
KEITH LEITCH
Farewell and thanks
So long, thanks for all the fish
Farewell
“I just wanted to say a huge thank you to all. I have now been here for nine years and during that time I have grown and learnt so much from each and everyone one of you from the Junior College through to the Senior College. “I have seen a lot of changes take place and watched Saint Stephen’s College grow. From working across the school I can honestly say that the staff here are amazing. Even when we are under pressure we still find a way through and manage to laugh along the way. “Saint Stephen’s College is a special place to work. Thank you to everyone for all of your support and guidance over the years. I wish everyone all the very best for the future and I hope to see you all around sometime.”
“Just wanted to say a big thank you to all of you for my time at Saint Stephen’s College. It was my first school position and I did both of my pracs here. I’m still in shock to think it was five and a half years ago that I came to this school. “To share a name with my first school is quite a rare thing! (I still giggle a little on the inside when we sing the College hymn). “It’s kind of daunting and exciting taking on the challenge of moving overseas. I’ll be taking up a position in the Beijing National Say School working within the IB framework as their Head of Computer Science/e-learning coordinator. It’s one of the more prestigious schools in China built after the Korean War for the sons of generals. I appreciate you all at Saint Stephen’s College and as a teacher I have learnt so much. I would not have had the growth opportunities if it wasn’t for the supportive framework that this school provides.”
It was with regret that we farewelled Senior College English teacher, Mr Keith Leitch, after 10 years with Saint Stephen’s. Headmaster, Mr Jamie Dorrington said Mr Leitch was one of the most dedicated teachers he had worked with. “His work in the classroom as well as in the area of public speaking, drama and kayaking has always been of the highest quality. Students may not be aware that Mr Leitch instigated the much loved ‘Battle of the Bands’ many years ago. “Keith has been a wonderful member of staff, for many years, who has set high standards for both himself and the students. His work in the classroom and the co-curricular areas will be greatly missed.”
10 YEARS OF SERVICE ACKNOWLEDGED Each year on Saint Stephen’s Day we acknowledge our members of staff who have served the College for 10 years or longer. Congratulations to the most recent recipients who reached the milestone on 18 September 2015: Gaye Affleck, Jacqlyn Cassidy, Jane Harris, Glenys Heslin, Rebecca Horry, Marjie Howard, Laura Sullivan, Christine McNeill, Michael Owens, Rowena Parfitt, Hazel Saunders-Bass and Nicole Scott.
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STAFF NEWS HAYLEY MCGREGOR
JAI SCHELBACK
KERRIE AND RYAN SOARS
Baby Ezra
Baby Emmi
Congratulations to our Junior Music teacher, Jai Schelbach, mum Sarah and big sister Evie on the arrival of their newest family member Ezra James – born on 8 January 2015 weighing 3.957 kilograms. Jai says: “He is a healthy little chap with a good set of lungs to go with it. Not to be vain, but he definitely has his Dad’s good looks :-P”
Baby Mia College Assistant to the Executive, Hayley McGregor, and her husband Mick welcomed their second child, Mia, in May 2015. Congratulations Hayley and Mick. Another Saint Stephen’s preppie for 2020!
LINDY CULVERWELL
Baby Casey Catherine Congratulations to Senior College teacher Lindy Culverwell and husband Michael on their newest member of the family – little Casey Catherine Culverwell, who was born on 5 January 2015 weighing 2.49 kilograms.
STAFF DRUMLINE
Inspired by the beat of the four-time national champion Saint Stephen’s College Drumline, staff took up snares, tenors, bass drums and sticks to form their very own ensemble in 2014. Coached by Sean McNeill, an Old Scholar and former Drumline member who played with the national College winners in 2011 and 2012, the staff put in solid rehearsals which led to their first College gig on Saint Stephen’s Day in September 2014 and a paid performance in May 2015 at the Gold Coast Marina.
College Prep teacher Kerrie Soars and College Junior PE teacher Ryan Soars welcomed baby Emmi Harper Soars into their family on 22 March 2015. Emmi, the cute new sister for Kai and Chelsi, weighed 2.72 kilograms or six pounds on the imperial scale.
COACH Sean McNeill: Old Scholar and former Saint Stephen’s College Drumline member, played with national winners in 2011 and 2012. SNARES Katrina Riley: Year 2 teacher and Drum Major Christine McNeill - Teacher Aid in Junior COLLEGE Claudia Saint Claire: Teacher Aid in Junior College; Marjie Howard: Assistant to the College Executive TENORS Brian Fischer : Dean of Junior College; Grace Dorrington: eLearning Support; Sandra Lipinski: Senior College Teacher BASS Tracey Ashbridge: Learning Enhancement ; Teena Nienaber: Year 4 teacher; Roz Comport: Teaching and Learning, Assistant to the Headmaster Curriculum Tenor and College eLearning Support, Mrs Grace Dorrington, said staff ‘drumliners’ had paid for the service and repair of a second-hand drum set they had inherited when the College upgraded its percussion instruments. “We are a group of dedicated staff who were inspired by our student Drumline. We officially practice every Friday morning but for those who are extra keen we also have an optional practise session on Monday afternoons,” said Mrs Dorrington.
“We pay ‘term fees’. This allows Sean to get a small stipend as well as allowed us to purchase a set of drum sticks for the group. We have also just exclusively funded the overdue repair of the old white drums set, which were bought second hand in 2005!” “We love our drumming!!!” The Staff Drumline can be booked for a playout. All money raised is used to fund the ongoing costs of service and repairs. Just search SSC Staff Drumline on Facebook for more information.
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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? NAZZER NICERIO
Class of 2005 It’s almost 10 years since I graduated from Saint Stephen’s College and it’s been a pretty eventful life trip to date. I entered into a double degree at Griffith University Nathan and studied Bachelor of Information Technology/Bachelor of Multimedia for two years before taking a two-year break as a volunteer missionary for my church - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I travelled to America to our Missionary Training Centre for a three-month immersive study of the language
and basic missionary skills and was placed in Kobe. After completing two years of service, I returned to full-time study and a part-time job. I finished my double degree in 2012 but decided to do a Postgraduate Graduate Diploma of Education - Secondary (Film and Television; Information Technology). I have an interest in teaching due to participating
DOMINIQUE WILLISON (NEE POLLARD)
in workshops for high schoolers looking to enter university, and during my time teaching religion and English as a missionary. While studying, I was introduced to Japan Exchange and Teaching Program, a government initiative that enables university graduates to teach English in Japan. I applied and worked full time until I received word that I had been successful and arrangements had been made for me to work for the Hasuda Board of Education in Saitama. In my first year, I was assigned to Kurohama Junior High School and its elementary counterparts: Kurohama and Kurohama Minami. The school year starts
in April, so I entered mid- year. I was then assigned to Hirano Junior High School and its elementary counterpart - Hirano Elementary School. And 2015, I have been assigned to Hasuda Junior High School, Hasuda Chuo Elementary and Hasuda Kita Elementary. I had initially planned to stay here for just two years, but it seems like I will stay for a possible fourth year. I am using my spare time to enjoy the culture and experiences of living in a country that is so different to Australia, doing things such as snowboarding, visiting historical sights and tasting all the amazing food!
SARAH HURLEY (NEE CHAMPNESS)
Class of 2004
Class of 2007
At the age of 10 I saw a documentary about the paediatric ward of a UK hospital. I remember by the time the documentary had finished I had decided that what I wanted to do when I grew up was ‘save babies’. I studied a Bachelor of Nursing at Griffith University Gold Coast and graduated in 2007. For the past five years I have been working as a Registered Nurse in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital. I am also involved in clinical teaching for new staff and students in the PICU in my role as a Preceptor. I met my then boyfriend 10 years ago and since then we’ve travelled overseas together, been married for five years and have two beautiful children.
Old Scholar Sarah Hurley (nee Champness) and husband Lee welcomed baby Patrick on 4 July 2015. Sarah is the youngest of three sisters who all attended Saint Stephen’s College, and were married in the College Chapel – within a space of three months. As foundation students, the Champness sisters are well known, and are a big part of the College history.
EMILY MCNEILL
KATIE BROWN (NEE CHAMPNESS)
Class of 2010
Class of 2002
Old Scholar and SwimCARE Manager Emily McNeill recently joined 12 volunteers from a Western Australian swim school on the annual AWSOM (Australian Water Safety on the Mekong) Project to Vietnam. The initiative delivers vital drowning prevention education to this high-risk area. It provides in-water lessons for disadvantaged, impaired and orphaned children in My Tho – the gateway to Mekong Delta; delivers mini seminars to parents in surrounding villages and trains locals to meet with Swim Australia Teacher standards. “Over the course of a week we helped to educate around six classes a day, with each class containing four to six children per instructor. The improvement we saw just in that period of time was so gratifying,” said Emily. Statistics show 32 children drown every day in Vietnam compared to 20 drowning in Australia for the year to June 2014. 26
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Congratulations to Class of 2002 Old Scholar Katie Brown (nee Champness - class of 2002) and husband Hamish and son Archer on the arrival of the newest member to the family - Flynn. Flynn was born on 30 January 2015. Foundation student Katie, and Hamish, were married at the Saint Stephen’s Chapel in December 2013.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? EDEN DORRINGTON
Class of 2010 STS Young Endeavour is an Australian tall ship operated by the Royal Australian Navy as part of the internationally recognised youth development program Young Endeavour. In 2015 the traditional five to seven-day voyages were replaced with a 12-month around-the-world journey. Eden Dorrington was selected to sail on the Rio to Cadiz passage, a 45-day voyage from mid-February to early April, as part of a crew of 24 divided into three ‘watches’, operating around-the-clock, just as they would in the regular Navy. Although travelling against the Trade Winds and having to motor for much of the passage, they still experienced climbing the rigging of the square master, setting and furling the sails, learning the ropes, participating in ‘man overboard’ exercises, helming the vessel and all other tasks involved in the general running of the ship. The drills
and exercises culminated in a Command Day where the staff crew handed the ship over to the youth crew who had to, unassisted, safely command and run the ship for 24 hours! Memorable events included being becalmed in the doldrums with no land in sight, having a dip in the 5000-metre deep, crystal, clear, waters of the mid Atlantic, stopping at Cape Verde and Teneriffe, and a special ceremonial visit from King Neptune and his water-logged messenger, Davey Jones, as they prepared to cross the Equator. One of Eden’s first log entries encapsulated the meaning of the voyage. “Hey Mum and Dad. I have come to realise that I did not quite know what it was that I
was biting off when I applied for this trip, but I can honestly say that it has proved to be a challenge and adventure in equal parts. I am so happy that I decided to come! Despite not being the most comfortable person with heights (thanks Dad), I have made it my mission to climb the masts (both fore and aft) as much as I can, all 35 metres of them. Today I went up to the very top of the main mast (I believe I was the first of the youth crew to do so!) I was also up the fore mast three times; once at sun rise, once at sun set, and once in the middle of the day just for good measure. I can say that being up on the ‘upper top’ at any time of the day is like being in another world, but during the twilight hours of
dusk and dawn, it is truly awe inspiring and surreal. It is like being on another planet, and I get a little bit teary eyed every time I climb aloft.” “When I joined the Young Endeavour in Rio, I had no idea what to expect, but even though I had no expectations, I was still blown away by the experience. Like some of the others before me, I have found the climbing a challenge! While I’m not afraid of heights, I do have a healthy respect for them! On a normal day, climbing a 33-metre mast wouldn’t bother me, but when you throw in a bit of fatigue, a dash of homesickness, a dollop of seasickness and 23 strangers doing it with you, it becomes a significantly more challenging situation. “The biggest surprise for me was how quickly I adapted to life aboard the ship. Be it waking up at 0400 (that’s 4am for you land lubbers!) for watch, or climbing the mast, or even just doing galley duty, I’ve enjoyed it all: I’m still finding it slightly surreal I’ve sailed across the equator in a tall ship!”
JOSH MCCONVILLE
SARAH HICKEY
NIKKI FOZZARD
Class of 2003
Class of 2005
Class of 2004
Foundation student Josh McConville recently conquered what he described as a mountain – the role of the Hamlet for Bell Shakespeare directed by Damien Ryan and performed at the Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne. After he graduated from Saint Stephen’s in 2003, he enrolled into a three-year Bachelor of Arts in Applied Theatre degree at Griffith University Gold Coast. At the end of the second year was accepted to NIDA. So, at 19, he moved to Sydney. He graduated in 2008, and has ticked off many successes. These include: Winner of the Best Newcomer in the Sydney Theatre Awards for his role in The Call and the Strange Attractor. Best Actor in 2013 for his part in The Boys; Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Noises Off 2015; nomination for best Actor in The Green Room awards for his part in Sublime 2015. Tour of Europe with Cate Blanchett in Gross und Klein 2012. Starred in the award-winning film, The Infinite Man 2014. Appeared in The Turning, with Hugo Weaving and produced by David Wenham; three episodes of Underbelly; appeared in The Killing Field; television advertisements; toured with King Lear.
Class of 2005 graduate and moviemaker Sarah Hickey recently completed a 780-kilometre journey in 31 days, on foot, from Melbourne to Adelaide to find the inspiration and locations for her forthcoming film called Barren – the story of a single young mother who packs a bag and walks off on her own after the tragic death of her partner. Sarah is a director, producer and writer based in Melbourne and one third owner of the production company Monster and Bear. On her website Sarah provides insight into the reason for her epic walk. “I’ve always been very drawn to the outdoors and very long hikes, so this walk is something I’ve wanted to challenge myself with for some time now. “I have an idea of what this film is, but its visual style is very dependent on the brooding scenery that Australia has on offer. I’m keeping the story close to my chest, and very open at the same time.” Sarah’s journey from College to filmmaker comprises directing commercials and establishing her own company in 2013. Her clients have included Telstra, Fair Work Australia, Priceline Pharmacy, Wildlife Victoria.
I graduated from Saint Stephen’s College in 2004 and commenced my studies at Griffith University in February 2005. I started with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, with the next (at least) 15 years of my life planned out. I had the intention of becoming a paediatric oncologist, inspired by my own childhood illness. However, in my second year I realised medicine didn’t suit the lifestyle I had envisaged. I had no idea what else I wanted to do, which made me feel quite lost, and I nearly dropped out of Uni. It was around this time that I had also become involved in some work experience in a medical research lab. Fast forward a few years. I graduated from the Bachelor of Biomedical Science with Honours in 2008, and a few weeks later I married Aaron who I have known since Year 12. In 2012 I was employed as an Associate Lecturer in the School of Medical Science to co-ordinate my own course in Statistics. This was a career dream come true. Later that year our first bubwas born in April 2013. I never realised I’d end up in a career in maths, but when I look back on my schooling, I realise that it’s exactly where I should be :) OPTIMA | SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE
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WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
We welcome international students We have many years experience in providing excellence in education for international students from all over the world. We are proud to be one of the friendliest, safest and productive schools in Australia. Saint Stephen’s College has a history of impressive academic achievements. Many of our international students have graduated with the highest possible tertiary entrance result and some have received university scholarships. A Saint Stephen’s College education offers a very high standard of academic, sporting and cultural opportunities. Our international students make solid friendships, develop better language skills and experience the very best of Australian culture. In 2006 Sam Holmes, also a member of our College Executive, was appointed to develop the international program and is responsible for all aspects of international education and the development of global perspectives at Saint Stephen’s College. Sam is passionate about international education and personally experienced life as an international student in Japan many years ago. Sam speaks Japanese and has travelled extensively throughout most of the world. Sam has first-hand knowledge of many different cul-
tures and communities. Sam ensures that all international students receive exceptional pastoral care and support during their time at Saint Stephen’s College. “Our international students are such a special part of our College and to see them proudly walk through the tunnel on their graduation day brings me to tears every year. Most arrive with very little English, internet-researched-only knowledge of Australia and their life for the next few years in one suitcase. They are all so very brave and incredibly inspiring,” said Ms Holmes.
ANTONINA (TONYA) GORSHENINA
ANNIE CHOI
Class of 2012
Class of 2013
After graduating from Saint Stephen’s College in 2012 I took a gap year and am now in my third year of engineering at the University of Toronto, Canada. I am pursuing a Bachelor in Engineering Science, majoring in Infrastructure Engineering. In addition, I am playing on the Varsity tennis team and this year our team qualified to play in the National Championship which will occur during Rogers Cup in Toronto.
Congratulations Annie Choi on your ongoing golfing success around the globe. Annie graduated in 2013 and is a former Greg Norman Junior Masters Champion. She began her golfing success in May 2006 while at Saint Stephen’s. At age 14 Annie was was one of the first students enrolled with the AnK Golf Academy at Sanctuary Cove, and has not looked back since. In 2013 she qualified as a semi-professional on the KLPGA. She has also qualified to play at both the Australian Open and Australian Masters. Most recently locals would have seen Annie’s winning style at the RACV Ladies Masters at Royal Pines on the Gold Coast.
KOKI MAEKAWA
Class of 2006 Koki Maekawa completed his exchange year at Saint Stephen’s College in 2010. He is now working for his father’s company in Japan and has just become a father himself!! Koki and his wife, Shoko, welcomed little Mitsuki, meaning ‘beautiful moon’ in Japanese, to their family recently. Congratulations Koki, our first international exchange student to become a parent!
ASAKO KAJIWARA
Class of 2006 Asako Kajiwara, one of the first international exchange students from Okayama Gakugeikan High School, is currently building her career as an Assistant Stage Manager. During her one year exchange at Saint Stephen’s College Asako studied Film and TV 28
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and fell in love with it! Asako has made a documentary film about her life in Australia which has fuelled her interest in travel. She spent time in Germany on another study exchange where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Internation-
al Liberal Studies and immersed herself in European Theatre. In 2013 Asako started with the TOYO theatrical division, where more recently she worked on a Viennese musical which premiered in Tokyo in July 2015.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? YASUHIRO ‘YASU’ TAKATSUKA
HAITAO SHEN
Class of 2009
Class of 2010
Yasuhiro Takatsuka, known as ‘Yasu’, was the most cheerful and cheeky exchange student from Okayama Gakugeikan High School back in 2009. Yasu really wanted to stay in Australia until graduation, which would have been the following year. However, he had to return to Okayama to complete his High School Senior. Yasu is now studying English at university in Japan recently achieved his ultimate dream of becoming a professional surfer! This is not surprising as while on exchange at Saint Stephen’s Yasu spent a lot of time in the surf which has certainly paid off! Secretly, Yasu travels to the Gold Coast every year to surf our beaches and meet up with his Australian friends.
Haitao Shen, Class of 2010, has opened his own Chinese restaurant at Marina Mirage on the Gold Coast. Haitao has worked hard to make China Palace a dining experience serving up lots of traditional Chinese food. Specialising in crispy Peking duck, the restaurant has attracted locals and visitors, including international actors, to the Broadwater location. Haitao is encouraging some of his former classmates and teachers to drop in for yum cha, lunch or dinner. Pictured with Haitao is Simon Yam, also known as Yam Tat-wah (任達華), a veteran Hong Kong-based actor and film producer
ARI TEIKO
Class of 2007
JIMMY LI
Class of 2010 Jimmy Li, an international student from the Class of 2010, has successfully completed a Bachelor of Business majoring in Finance and Accounting at QUT. Jimmy is currently studying a Master of International Economics and Finance at the University of Queensland. His parents travelled from China to join Jimmy at his graduation in July. Jimmy says he cherishes his time at Saint Stephen’s College and is now planning a return trip to the Bunya Mountains where he enjoyed his Year 11 Leadership Retreat many years ago. He remains in close, regular contact with his homestay amily from his Saint Stephen’s days.
Ari Teiko, Class of 2007, looks back on his seven years of studying in Australia with a strong sense of pride. When he arrived at Saint Stephen’s Ari’s English proficiency was limited. However, though hard work and determination Ari became fluent in English and successfully completed his Bachelor in Business Management degree at the University of Queensland in 2014. “This could not have been achieved without the immense support of my Australian friends and the host family at Saint Stephens,” he says. “I was very fortunate to have met such warm people who have encouraged me throughout this journey and I am very proud to call Australia my second home.” Ari homestayed with Mr Gavin Neuper, a long-serving staff member. After his graduation from university, Ari was offered a consultant position at an internationally evolving company based in Japan. Ari truly appreciates all of the valuable experiences he has had in Australia and is very excited for the challenges that lie ahead in his future.
KEN KITANO
Class of 2012 Ken Kitano was well known for his exceptional piano playing during his time at Saint Stephen’s College. Ken started his education with us as a one-year exchange student from Okayama Gakugeikan High School, however it wasn’t long before he decided to remain until graduation. In 2012 Ken graduated from the College and more recently was a graduate of the prestigious Glion Institute of Higher Education (GIHE) in Switzerland where he studied Accounting and Introduction to Food and Beverage.
Straight after his graduation, Ken’s dream came true and he started working for The Hotel Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo! Ken looks back his life in Australia and remembers: “The best thing I learned from this incredible experience was that nobody can live without support. The best skill I achieved is how to solve problems on my own and be independent. “Those two look like a paradox but both are true to me - imagine you have to interact with diverse people in a different language, food and atmosphere - you might then understand. I was lucky that I had a chance
to put myself into this kind of environment, it has been so beneficial to me. In reflection, it all happened so naturally and I appreciate that I could learn this when I was so young.” Ken is now working hard for The Hotel Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, and cherishes each customer as an individual. His goal is to be the one who is able to dedicate himself to making others feel at absolute comfort and peace with his unconditional hospitality. OPTIMA | SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE
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CONNECTIONS PROGRAM
Making all the right Connections 10 years of success
Inks
Mick Skehan
HEAD OF YEAR 8
I
t is with tremendous pride that I offer my hearty congratulations to the Connections Program on its 10th Birthday. As the first Year 7 and 8 Connections students walked through the doors in 2006, a new chapter of the College had begun. It is hard to imagine, even now, the children who started that year have already graduated and moved onto the next stage of their lives. As a Connections team we welcomed many new students to our College. Each one added their own piece of identity, while the existing students went out of their way to make them feel at home. This spirit is synonymous with our College and is a reflection on each and every student that has passed through the Connections Program. We left the original demountable classrooms down by the lagoon in 2008 and moved into own purpose-designed building. While enjoying our new modern surrounds, sometimes we do think back to those days by the lagoon; to the water dragons who greeted us daily; to ‘Henry the Duck’ who adopted us; and the hatchlings of turtles who walked out of our
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gardens one morning and raced past us into the water. The Connect Award commenced in 2012 with an emphasis on our students connecting with themselves and the community. Students engaged on a number of community-based projects, with the goal of volunteering time as the only criteria. It was satisfying to hand out numerous Connect Award badges to those who had successfully completed the program. Finally, I would like to thank and acknowledge the tremendous efforts of the teachers and support staff who have been part of the Connections Program. Many a time, this wonderfully talented group goes beyond the ‘call of duty’ to ensure your child is given the greatest opportunity to succeed. So HAPPY BIRTHDAY Connections with the wishes of many more to come!
•
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CONNECTIONS PROGRAM The Connections Program Our aim is for students to ‘connect’ - in a positive way - to their peers, teachers and learning. The Connections Program is designed to meet the academic, social and emotional needs of the emerging adolescent in Years 7 and 8. The teaching team creates a caring environment in which students feel empowered to confidently transition from the traditional setting and structure of the Junior College to the greater interdependence required in the Senior College. As students search to define who they are, and how they
Inkspot Ad St Stephens.indd 15/09/2015 1:55 pm - 1 -
relate to the world, staff provide the necessary guidance and boundaries to foster positive decision-making skills in these crucial years.
The Connections curriculum
●●All students study the core subjects: Mathematics, English, Humanities and Science. ●●Curriculum subjects also include: Music, Art, LOTE (Languages other than English), Health and Physical Education (HPE) and Information Technology (IT). ●●Students participate in their chosen elective subjects, APS sports plus a wide range of extracurricular activities.
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phone: 07 5596 4277 email: sales@s-inkspot.com.au www.s-inkspot.com.au OPTIMA | SAINT STEPHEN’S COLLEGE 65 Lawrence Drive Nerang
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COLLEGE SPORT
High honour to play rugby
DIRECTOR OF RUGBY
T
o be selected as a member of the Barbarians is regarded as one of the highest honours that a rugby player can achieve while attending Saint Stephen’s College. The team is selected based upon the qualities of leadership, skill, sportsmanship and adherence to the fine traditions of the game. To be selected, the player is deemed to be the best player in that position across the entire Senior College; taking into account his age, experience and playing ability. Players on the list are judged and selected based on: ● overall rugby talent ● sportsmanship both on and off the field ● strengths that they bring to that team ● representative honours ● training ● maturity of play in relation to their age group. For example, 1st XV player V’s Year 7.
2014 RUGBY BARBARIANS
1 ................. Alex Nelson (14s) 2 ............. Christian Daly (15s) 3 ............... Riley Teague (15s) 4 ............... Jack Wood (1st XV) 5 .............Angus Douglas (13s) 6 ................ Jye Janetzki (15s) 7 ............... Emile Du Toit (14s) 8. .............. Zander Henn (15s) 9 ............. Ethan Claverie (14s) 10 ............ Sam Walsh (1st XV) 11 ......... Lleyton Morgan (14s) 12 .............. Cooper Cook (16s) 13 .......... James Nicholls (13s) 14 ............ Liam Sandral (15s) 15 ........ Hadleigh Kirk (1st XV) Spirit of Rugby 2014 Daniel Baxter
LOOKING BACK 5 YEARS 2009 BARBARIANS
LOOKING BACK 10 YEARS 2004 BARBARIANS
1....................Darry Middleton 2.......................... Robbie Daly 3......................... Tom Fletcher 4............Hennie van der Schyff 5.....................Duncan McNicol 6.................. Scott McLaughlin 7......................Nicholas Milloy 8.......................... Dean Cockin 9........................... Ben Walker 10. ........................... Zac Curtis 11. ................... Michael Turner 12. ................. Hayden Collinge 13. .............. Craig Wordsworth 14. ............Mario Jewaskiewitz 15. .......................... Conor War
1.......................... Dean Cockin 2.........................Jason Mackie 3...................... Tom Richmond 4.............................Jacob Lacy 5........................Brad Erasmus 6....................Matthew Knight 7.........................Stuart Marsh 8.................. James Ostapenko 9............................Zach White 10 ..................... Tim Trembath 11 ................... Matthew Brady 12 ....................... Wayne Jonck 13 ...........................Ben Harris 14 ........................ Jacob White 15 .................. Richard Stewart
Spirit of Rugby 2009 Craig Wordsworth
Spirit of Rugby 2004 Brock Schaefer
Upper Coomera
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COLLEGE SPORT
OVER 45 CLASSES PER WEEK!
Our girls join Sevens squad Mick Skehan
DIRECTOR OF RUGBY
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I
t is another first for Saint Stephen’s College Rugby as I am proud to announce that three of our very talented and dedicated girls have recently been selected in the Gold Coast U15 Sevens Development Squad. Not only are these girls our first female rugby representatives, they are also our first Sevens Representatives. Olivia Williams, Casey Dolkens and Brittany Hill were selected after more than 100 girls trialled. They will continue to play and train and hopefully be selected in the final Gold Coast Sevens Team. This is an extremely important step for players across the Gold Coast with Men’s and Women’s Sevens Rugby making its debut at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and it certainly will be among the sports at the 2018 Commonwealth Games here on the coast. We wish the girls all the best and I will keep you informed of their progress.
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✂
10-YEAR REUNION The class of 2004 returned to where it all began: the Saint Stephen’s College Campus, to dig up some treasured memories and catch up with some familiar faces.
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Developing character, inspiring hope Saint Stephen’s College is a co-educational, Daycare/ Preparatory to Year 12 independent school on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia.
Students at Saint Stephen’s College enjoy impressive success in all areas of academics, sporting and cultural pursuits, but it is the ‘spirit’ of our community that truly sets us apart from other schools. We strive to develop students who are full of character, who are empowered to reach their full potential, and who live their lives as responsible global and local citizens.
All of our students experience rich learning, excellent facilities and visionary technology such as our digitally interactive learning spaces that encourage rich engagement and collaboration. Discover more, book a personal tour today on:
07 55738600
We value the development of global perspectives in our students and we achieve this through integrating our domestic students with our thriving community of international students.
saintstephenscollege.net.au CRICOS Provider Number 01938G
HELENSVALE FEATURE STORY 5519 3666
ROBINA 5578 7333
UPPER COOMERA 5519 4623
No referral necessary No charge for initial consultation Interest free no deposit payment plans
Dr Joseph E Bleakley BDSc (Qld), MDSc (Ortho) (Syd), FRACDS, MRACDS (Ortho) Dr Scott McNab BDSc (Hons), MDSc (Ortho), DClinDent (Dento-maxillofacial Radiology) Dr Nida Khan BDSc (Hons) (Qld), DClinDent (Ortho) (Adel)